'Made in America' Bill Introduced by Fitzpatrick

U.S. Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-8) has introduced a bill to highlight American-made products and create incentives for manufacturers to increase domestic production.

The Made in America Act of 2013 [HR 2664]—introduced in the House Thursday—creates a voluntary, standardized labeling program that would allow consumers to easily identify the extent to which products are American-made.

Fitzpatrick announced the bill at an event at Hatfield's Rodon Group, which makes plastic components for an American toy company.

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“Americans know the phrase ‘Made in America’ carries a meaning of quality and craftsmanship – this bill helps consumers easily identify when they’re buying American,” said Fitzpatrick. “By connecting American consumers to American manufacturers like never before, we can bring more good paying manufacturing jobs back to the US.”

According to a press release from Fitzpatrick's office:

Over the past several years, global economic factors and increased efficiencies in U.S. manufacturing have led to an ‘in-sourcing’ trend that has seen more companies locate manufacturing facilities in the U.S.  As American-made products are often associated with increased safety and quality, companies with U.S. manufacturing facilities have also started attracting consumers by identifying their products as American-made. This legislation standardizes that identification process.

The Made in America Act was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. It was introduced along with U.S. Rep. John Carney (D-DE).

“We need to make things in America again. ‘The America Star Program’ will make it easier for consumers to find American-made products and support the companies that are committed to employing American workers,” said Carney of the bill. “It also creates an incentive for companies that are deciding whether to move production facilities back to the U.S.” 

Fitzpatrick was joined at a press conference by Michael Araten, Rodon Group president and CEO.

"Consumers around the world are craving American made products. The ‘American Star Program’ recognizes manufacturers like K’NEX and Rodon that make products here in the USA,” said Araten. “Just as importantly, this legislation encourages American manufacturing and the sale of American made products. In a global economy, the ‘American Star Program’ gives consumers’ certainty and manufacturers a competitive edge. That is what governing is all about.”